[Press Release] : Statement from City Manager Bill Watkins regarding Midkiff complaint

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
Contact: Bill Watkins, City Manager - (573) 874-6338 or Robert Ross,
Public Communications - (573) 874-7220

Statement from City Manager Bill Watkins regarding Midkiff complaint

COLUMBIA, MO (March 7, 2006) -- "Mr. Ken Midkiff, Ozark Chapter of
the Sierra Club, has raised what I consider to be a very serious
complaint about a potential conflict of interest of Mr. David Nichols,
chief engineer for the Public Works Department, in the development of
Park View Center, Phase I at Stadium Boulevard and U.S. 63. Mr. Nichols
was previously employed by an engineering firm hired by the company
developing that area.

As with any complaint, I am taking this seriously and am thoroughly
reviewing the facts of this situation.

Mr. Nichols has been employed by the City of Columbia since October
2005. I have talked with Mr. John Glascock, public works director, and
it is my understanding that Mr. Nichols has not been previously involved
with this development while serving on the city staff. I have asked him
to continue to refrain from involvement pending the completion of my
review. It is my intent to complete the review as quickly as
possible."

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